Common knowledge says that you’re supposed to “exchange information” after a car crash. While that’s good advice, it’s incomplete. If you don’t get all the right information after a car crash, holding the other driver accountable and proving your case could be much more difficult. With that in mind, we’ve put together this guide explaining how to exchange information after a crash.
The Basics
Once you meet the other driver, you need to trade basic contact information and the information on your card. You should also get visual evidence from the surrounding area. Here’s a handy checklist of what evidence you should have before leaving the scene of the crash.
- Other Driver’s Name
- Their Phone Number and Email Address
- Driver’s License Number
- License Plate Number
- Insurance Carrier
- Insurance Policy Number
- Photos of Each Side of Both Cars
- Photos of Where the Crash Happened
- Contact Information of Eye Witnesses
Much of this information (including witness statements) will be included in a police report. It’s often wise to have a police officer on the scene as a police report will verify that all of the information exchanged is accurate.
If you don’t have a police officer present, be extremely careful and take steps to verify the other driver’s information yourself. If the other driver gives you inaccurate information or if they leave the scene before exchanging information, you may have to file an uninsured driver claim.
Verifying the Driver’s Information
Thanks to modern technology, we have a simple way to verify the other driver’s information and reduce the risk of a hit and run. Ask the other driver to text you photos of their driver’s license and insurance card and offer to do the same for them. Not only will this will ensure you accurately copy the information, but the other driver sending you a text will verify their identity and give your attorney a way to contact the other driver in the future.
Though it seems like a small gesture, knowing how to properly exchange and verify information can make your car crash case much easier.
If you were hit and hurt in a car crash, we’re here to help. To schedule a free case consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer from Payne Law Firm, please don’t hesitate to call (713) 999-4801 or send us an email.